How to Get Perfectly Tousled Beach Waves This Summer

Posted by Team John Paul Mitchell Systems® on July 11, 2023

When the sun starts to shine brighter, and the days grow longer, it can only mean one thing - summer is finally here! Along with the allure of sun-soaked afternoons and the call of poolside lounging, there's another irresistible aspect of summer: the effortlessly chic beach waves. Whether you're planning a tropical getaway or simply dreaming of one, getting those perfectly tousled beach waves is a breeze with the right approach and the right products.

Paul Mitchell® is here to guide you through your summer hair transformation. We’ll teach you how to get beach waves for the ultimate summer look, even if the beach is miles away. It's time to unlock the secret to healthy, bouncy, salt-kissed waves.

Your Wave, Your Way: Healthy Hair Comes First

Before diving into the sea of techniques for how to do beach waves, let's anchor on an essential truth: healthy hair is the best starting point for any style.

Your hair's health and texture can dramatically influence how well it can get and maintain a curl or beach wave. Overly dry or damaged hair might struggle to maintain those beautiful waves, while healthy, well-nourished hair naturally takes to the style, making your waves last longer and look better.

Everyday Products, Elevated

So, how do you ensure your hair is in its best shape to get beach waves? Choosing high-quality, professional everyday products with transparent, powerful ingredients is where it all starts. Begin by incorporating a hydrating shampoo and conditioner into your everyday routine, and add in daily or weekly hair treatments to level up the benefits. Bond repairing treatments and keratin protein products can give your hair an extra dose of nourishment, priming it for those summer-perfect waves.

Our Favorite Styling Techniques for Dreamy Beach Waves

The secret for how to do beach waves lies in their effortless, natural look. Contrary to the uniform curls you'd get with traditional curling methods, beach waves are all about casual, free-flowing curls with a sun-kissed texture. Here are three effective techniques you can try:

Braiding for Beach Waves

If you’re on a mission to repair damaged hair, this is a great way to get beach waves that avoids heat and takes advantage of hydrating hair treatments.

Start with damp hair, ideally after washing with a hydrating shampoo and conditioner. After priming with your favorite detangler or leave-in treatment, part your hair down the middle. Apply a sea salt spray to add texture, and then create a loose braid on each side. Leave the braids in overnight. When you wake up, unravel the braids to reveal soft, beachy waves.

The Twisting Technique

After towel-drying your hair, apply a generous amount of a high-quality, hair-healthy texturizing mousse from the mid-lengths to the ends of your hair. Take small sections of hair and twist them loosely. You can either let your hair air dry naturally or speed up the process with a diffuser for a more voluminous finish.

The Flat Iron Method

For those who prefer heat styling, this method of how to get beach waves has great results. On dry hair, apply a heat protectant spray first to safeguard your locks. Then, take a section of hair and twist it around two fingers to form a loose curl. Gently press the curl with a flat iron. Repeat this process for all sections of your hair. Remember to set your waves with a flexible-hold hairspray to ensure they last throughout your summer adventures.

Essential Products and Tools for Beach Waves

Now that we've covered the techniques for how to get beach waves, let's talk about the tools of the trade. Achieving beach waves is easier when you have the right products and tools at your disposal.

Hair Styling Products

The key to authentic beach waves is texture - but we’re also on a mission to keep your locks healthy and hydrated to ensure this look shines. Opt for styling products that help you achieve your desired look while caring for your hair.

Texturizing Sea Spray - $27.50

Our texturizing sea spray is fantastic for that fresh-off-the-beach look. Figuring out how to do beach waves takes minimal effort when you add touchably hydrated body and volume to your hair.

Ultimate Wave Lightweight Hair Gel - $20.00

To enhance your natural texture and help your beach waves hold all day, our lightweight hair gel helps you create a humidity-resistant style while smoothing your locks.

Hair Tools

Neuro Angle Bendable Titanium Curling Iron - $146.50

Our bendable titanium curling iron makes waving and curling easy with a comfortable, ergonomic grip. Pair this curling iron with your favorite Paul Mitchell® heat protectant and watch your healthy waves come to life.

Express Ion WavePress Ceramic Deep Waver - $94.50

Looking for the easiest method for how to do beach waves with a deep look that lasts all day? Our deep waver hair tool uses far-infrared technology to deliver shine as it waves - it’s great for all hair types.

Embrace Carefree Hair with Paul Mitchell®

As summer unfolds, it's time to embrace the season's laid-back, carefree spirit in every way – and that includes your hairstyle. With these tips and techniques, you can effortlessly sport the beach wave look wherever you are.

At Paul Mitchell®, we offer an array of salon-quality products and styling tools to get beach waves that look and feel effortless. From hydrating products packed with nourishing ingredients to texturizing sprays designed to give you that beachy feel, we've got you covered. Shop our best sellers or brand new products today and enjoy free shipping on every order over $50.